Elt Students' Perception Of Target Language And Culture: British Or American

Abstract

The study aims to investigate perceptions of English Language Teaching students toward target language and culture at a state university in Turkey. Understanding how they perceive British English and culture and also American English and culture; besides how their tendencies differ from each other, will help teachers and curriculum designers to increase quality of teaching and learning processes. Thus, in total, 130 university students participated in the study. 65 of them are 1st graders and 65 of them are 4th graders. To conduct the study, mixed-method research design, which combines quantitative and qualitative research methods, was employed. For the data collection, a questionnaire on participants’ perception toward the target language and culture and semi-structured interview were used. 18 items on British English and culture and American English and culture in the questionnaire were used, and the statements were adapted to be able to be used in Turkish context. Gathered quantitative data were analyzed through using SPSS 21.0 and qualitative data were analyzed through using content analysis. The conclusion drawn from the findings revealed that ELT students at Hacettepe University hold more positive perceptions toward British English and culture than American English and culture. In accordance with these outcomes, suggestions to improve students’ attitudes and perceptions toward target language and culture were provided.